PH Mundial – Port Harcourt Online Newspaper News across the Niger Delta
By Mandy Willy
Obeaku-Ndoki, a coastal community in Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State, has been described as a largely ignored maritime asset despite its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and potential to open new economic opportunities for the South-East region.
Located along the Imo River and linked through the famous Azumini Blue River into the Atlantic, Obeaku-Ndoki is considered by community stakeholders to be geographically closer to the open sea than some existing Nigerian ports, including Port Harcourt. The community says this strategic position remains undeveloped due to years of government neglect.
Stakeholders argue that a functional deep-sea port in the area would provide direct international shipping access for the South-East and parts of the South-South, reducing dependence on Lagos and Rivers State ports. They say such development would support Aba’s manufacturing base, Nnewi’s industrial clusters and Onitsha’s commercial activities through cheaper and faster export channels.
Despite the potential, Obeaku-Ndoki currently lacks key infrastructure such as port facilities, access roads and industrial support services. Local leaders say the community continues to rely mainly on fishing and small-scale economic activities, while national investments remain concentrated in Lagos ports and Onne, which continue to face congestion and infrastructural challenges.
The Ndoki Union Youth Wing maintains that the area reflects a broader pattern of marginalisation faced by Ndoki communities located along waterways leading to the sea. It urged federal and state authorities to consider the economic implications of opening up the maritime corridor through dredging, port construction and transport linkages.
According to the Union, such development would not only decongest existing ports but also create jobs, expand regional commerce and position Ndoki as a strategic trade gateway for Nigeria and West Africa.
The group called on policymakers to prioritise investment in Obeaku-Ndoki, describing it as a “sleeping maritime asset” that could significantly boost national economic growth if fully developed.
